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ABSTRACT: Introduction
The present study expands previous research on early experiences with tobacco by using a Multiple Indicator Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model, which permits combining indicators tapping into pleasant experiences into one latent construct and those indicators of unpleasant experiences into another latent construct.Methods
A sample of 458 participants was recruited via newspaper advertisements. Response to early experimentation with cigarettes was assessed using the Early Smoking Experiences questionnaire, in which participants were asked the following question: "The first time you tried cigarettes, did you experience any of the following? (pleasurable and displeasurable sensations [overall], pleasurable rush or buzz, dizziness, relaxation, nausea, cough, difficulty inhaling)." These experiences were rated on a scale ranging from 1 = none to 4 = intense.Results
The MIMIC model revealed that current smoking status and age of initial experimentation with cigarettes were significantly associated with both early pleasant and unpleasant experiences (p < .05). African Americans were less likely than Whites to have early unpleasant experiences (p < .05). No association was found between race and early pleasant experiences.Discussion
Our findings are consistent with the inferences that pleasant experiences in response to early experimentation with smoking lead to regular smoking and that positive experiences play a stronger role than negative experiences in the transition to regular smoking. Our study also demonstrates that the MIMIC model is pertinent and practicable in nicotine and smoking research. We recommend it as a useful tool for identifying endophenotypes related to nicotine dependence and tobacco use latent constructs.
SUBMITTER: Rios-Bedoya CF
PROVIDER: S-EPMC2725005 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Sep
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Ríos-Bedoya Carlos F CF Pomerleau Cynthia S CS Neuman Rosalind J RJ Pomerleau Ovide F OF
Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco 20090703 9
<h4>Introduction</h4>The present study expands previous research on early experiences with tobacco by using a Multiple Indicator Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model, which permits combining indicators tapping into pleasant experiences into one latent construct and those indicators of unpleasant experiences into another latent construct.<h4>Methods</h4>A sample of 458 participants was recruited via newspaper advertisements. Response to early experimentation with cigarettes was assessed using the Early ...[more]